The Philadelphia Flyers are higher up in the standings than expected, but speculation suggests not to expect the rebuilding team to buy, buy, buy. What are their options?

The rebuilding Philadelphia Flyers entered this season expected to be near the bottom of the standings. Past the midway point of the season, they're sitting third in the Metropolitan Division.

Their unexpected improvement has prompted speculation over whether GM Daniel Briere will remain a seller or become a buyer leading up to the March 8 trade deadline.

THN Philadelphia's Siobhan Nolan noted that Briere intends to maintain the long view regarding his club's future. 

“Don't expect us to go out and spend primary assets trying to make a run,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

The day before Briere's remarks, Michael DeRosa cited Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, saying the Flyers will be sellers at the deadline, starting with Sean Walker. Earlier this month, THN Edmonton's Caleb Kerney suggested the 29-year-old defenseman would be a great fit on the Edmonton Oilers blueline.

Kevin Kurz of The Athletic noted Walker and blueliner Nick Seeler are potential trade chips because they're eligible to become UFAs on July 1. He also pointed out that rearguard Rasmus Ristolainen and center Morgan Frost have also surfaced in the rumor mill.

Briere indicated he won't make trades for the sake of it. 

“A lot of it will depend on the marketplace,” he said on Wednesday, adding he'll consider a deal if it makes the Flyers stronger for the future.

That could include bolstering their goaltending depth. THN San Jose's Max Miller took note of Carter Hart's indefinite leave of absence. Briere wants to protect promising netminder Sam Ersson while he's still developing his game.

Should Hart be away for an extended period, Miller suggested Kaapo Kakhonen could be the perfect replacement. The 27-year-old Finn has put up decent numbers on the rebuilding San Jose Sharks. His $2.75-million cap hit would fit within the Flyers' salary cap.

Kahkonen, however, is also slated to become a UFA in July. Unless the Flyers sign him to a contract extension, acquiring him goes against Briere's preference not to give up prime assets for a quick fix. Perhaps he might reconsider if the Sharks' asking price is a late-round draft pick.